Roadmap for Answer Writing 1. Introduction (50-70 words) Briefly introduce the Non-Aligned Movement (NAM) and its creation during the Cold War era. Mention its goal of promoting sovereignty, independence, and peace by staying neutral between the two power blocs of the US and ...
Concrete cliché: The berlin wall, built in 1961, epitomized the cold war division. Dividing the city into two, it conveyed the essence of Cold War’s division between Eastern Europe aggressors led by the Soviet Union and the democratic western world led United States and their allies. The Wall was erRead more
Concrete cliché: The berlin wall, built in 1961, epitomized the cold war division. Dividing the city into two, it conveyed the essence of Cold War’s division between Eastern Europe aggressors led by the Soviet Union and the democratic western world led United States and their allies. The Wall was erected to keep East Germans from crossing to the West; It was the embodiment of the oppressive cultures of communism which overall maintains the theme of freedom during this period.
Its presence supported what had been said that;
‘characterized the Cold War were espionage, propaganda, and proxy wars.’ The year 1989 was important, the Fall of the Wall, the decline of Soviet’s influence, the endpoint in Eastern Europe, the termination of the Cold War. It was also a transformation to reunification in Germany alongside to the break up of Eastern bloc.
Model Answer Introduction The Non-Aligned Movement (NAM) was established during the Cold War as a coalition of countries that refused to align themselves with either the United States or the Soviet Union. India, a prominent leader of NAM, played a crucial role in shaping its policies and guiding itsRead more
Model Answer
Introduction
The Non-Aligned Movement (NAM) was established during the Cold War as a coalition of countries that refused to align themselves with either the United States or the Soviet Union. India, a prominent leader of NAM, played a crucial role in shaping its policies and guiding its direction. This coalition aimed to safeguard the sovereignty and independence of its member states while promoting global peace and cooperation.
Role of NAM Countries during the Cold War
NAM countries were instrumental in reducing Cold War tensions by promoting self-determination and independence for oppressed nations. They actively supported the rights of newly decolonized nations, such as Puerto Rico’s struggle for self-determination in 1961. Additionally, NAM fostered South-South cooperation, helping small countries counter Western hegemony through mutual support for development. In the 1970s and 1980s, the movement also advocated for a New International Economic Order (NIEO), aimed at ensuring that all nations could benefit from their resources and improve economic relations globally. Furthermore, NAM members worked collectively towards disarmament, urging a cessation of the arms race and peaceful coexistence between states.
India’s Contribution to NAM
India’s role within NAM was multi-faceted. As a leader, it distanced itself from Cold War power politics, positioning itself as an “interested observer” rather than a participant. India also advocated for newly independent nations to avoid joining either of the power blocs. Through various regional and international organizations, India promoted NAM’s spirit by engaging countries that were outside the US and USSR alliances. India’s leadership in nuclear disarmament, opposition to apartheid, and its support for Palestinian rights and anti-colonial struggles further exemplified its commitment to NAM’s ideals.
Did India Remain Truly Non-Aligned?
India’s non-alignment has been questioned due to its close relationship with the Soviet Union during the Cold War. The signing of the Indo-Soviet Friendship Treaty in 1971 created concerns, as India was perceived as leaning towards the USSR, which diluted NAM’s non-aligned stance. Despite this, India also maintained relations with the United States and Western countries, playing a mediatory role in global conflicts. While India’s actions may not have always adhered strictly to non-alignment, its contributions to decolonization, peace efforts, and support for global justice remained consistent with NAM’s core principles.
Conclusion
India’s foreign policy today continues to reflect the core ideals of NAM, particularly in its pursuit of strategic autonomy. While the Cold War era saw complexities in India’s alignment, its overall approach to global issues demonstrated a commitment to the movement’s values. As a leader of developing nations, India’s role in NAM remains pivotal in addressing the challenges faced by the Global South.
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